Livewell for fishing boats

ABSTRACT

Some fishing boats include a livewell system. This document describes livewell systems that have multiple modes of operation. The modes of operation include, at least, a first mode with a lower water level and a second mode with a higher water level. While the livewell is operating in the second mode, the tank is nearly full of water. Accordingly, with a nearly full tank, the water in the livewell will resist sloshing around while the boat is navigating rough seas or travelling at high speeds or for long distances. Moreover, the health of the fish in the livewell will be protected because of the water&#39;s lessened tendency to slosh around in the livewell.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 62/989,195, filed Mar. 13, 2020. The disclosure of the priorapplication is considered part of (and is incorporated by reference in)the disclosure of this application.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

This document relates to boats and livewell systems. For example, thisdocument relates to livewell systems that have multiple modes ofoperation for use in conjunction with fishing boats.

2. Background Information

Fishermen, or anglers, particularly in fishing tournaments, face theproblem of getting to a favorite fishing location as quickly as possiblein a power boat, catching as many fish as possible within a limited timeperiod, and returning to the point of departure for a tournamentweigh-in before a specified time deadline. This oftentimes involvestraveling at high speeds in their powerboat, with the caught fish stillalive. In a fishing tournament, score deductions are assessed if thecaught fish are dead at the time of their weigh-in. The use of livewellsin fishing boats in order to keep caught fish alive is common.

The problem of preserving the health of caught fish in the livewells isparticularly acute when navigating at high speeds, in rough seas or overlong distances. That is the case because livewells are conventionallyused while only partially full of water (e.g., about 75% full or less).Accordingly, the water in a partially full livewell will slosh aroundwithin the livewell during the rough ride of the boat. This sloshing, orturbulence of the water, becomes increasingly worse during high-speedboat travel. In addition to a rough and/or high-speed boat ride, theride may be long. It is not unusual to be traveling long distances,sometimes 50 miles, in rough water. The fish in a partially fulllivewell, in turn, will be jostled and roughly treated as the water inthe livewell sloshes around.

There is also a tendency for water in a partially full livewell tooverflow from the livewell and leak out over the course of the boatride. This can be a problem for fishermen because when water level getstoo low, the result is that caught fish in the insufficiently fulllivewell may die. In contrast, adding water to a livewell system addsweight, which reduces performance of the fishing boat. The added weightcan be as much as the weight of an additional person (or more) in thefishing boat.

SUMMARY

This document describes fishing boats and livewell systems. For example,this document describes livewell systems that have multiple modes ofoperation.

The livewell systems described in this specification include the abilityto flood (fill to almost complete capacity) a reservoir tank andmaintain the flooded volume during the course of a desired period oftime (e.g., when navigating at high speeds, over long distances, and/orover rough seas). The livewell systems can also function in a mode thatuses less volume of water in the reservoir tank when a near fulllivewell is not needed or desired. For example, a full or nearly fulllivewell may not be needed when travelling at slower speeds, overshorter distances, or in calm seas. A full livewell is heavier than apartially full livewell, so a partially full livewell may be sufficientwhen a reduction of on-board weight is particularly beneficial. Theability to switch between a partially full livewell and a full livewellis a particular advantage of the livewell systems described in thisspecification.

An overflow valve can function in an open configuration to allow waterto discharge from the livewell to maintain a partially full water levelin the reservoir tank in a first mode. The overflow valve can functionin a closed configuration to prevent water from discharging from thereservoir tank in a second mode, therefore allowing a water level of thelivewell to increase. As described further below, a one-way valveprevents water from back-flowing through the livewell and thereforebeing discharged from the livewell. Also described further below, awater level sensor and a fluid level control unit electricallycommunicate with a water supply pump to allow the livewell to maintaineither the partial level or the full water level.

The livewell systems described in this specification can be used withany type of boat including powered (motorized) boats and unpoweredboats, such as canoes.

The livewell systems described in this specification include the abilityto use an optional divider within the livewell reservoir to segregatefish within the livewell. The divider may be slidably attached orpivotably attached to the livewell for ease of use by fishermen. In somecases, an inflatable member is used to control the water level in thelivewell.

The livewell systems described in this specification can include a dualcirculation capability, using two independent pumps for recirculation ofthe water in the livewell.

In one aspect, this disclosure is directed to a boat. Such a boatincludes a hull and a livewell system. The livewell system includes areservoir tank, a water supply pump, an upper reservoir drain port, adrain tube, a first valve, a water level sensor, and a control system.The water supply pump is operable to add water into the reservoir tank.The upper reservoir drain port is arranged to allow drainage of aportion of the water out of the reservoir tank when a level of the waterin the reservoir tank is at a first elevation. The drain tube is fluidlycoupled to the upper reservoir drain port. The first valve is positionedalong the drain tube. The first valve is actuatable between: (i) an openconfiguration that allows the portion of the water to drain out of thereservoir tank through the first valve and (ii) a closed configurationthat blocks the portion of the water from draining out of the reservoirtank through the first valve. The water level sensor is arranged tooutput a high water signal when a level of the water in the reservoirtank is at a second elevation that is above the first elevation. Thecontrol system is arranged to receive the high water signal from thewater level sensor and configured to output a signal to restrict furtheraddition of water into the reservoir tank in response to receiving thehigh water signal.

Such a boat and livewell system may optionally include one or more ofthe following features. The signal to restrict further addition of watermay cause stoppage of the water supply pump. The signal to restrictfurther addition of water may actuate a valve. The livewell system mayalso include a first selector switch that is actuatable to cause thelivewell system to operate in: (i) a first mode and (ii) a second mode.The first valve is in the open configuration while the livewell systemis operating in the first mode. The first valve is in the closedconfiguration while the livewell system is operating in the second mode.The livewell system may also include a second valve fluidly coupled to:(i) a water access port that extends through the hull, (ii) the watersupply pump and (iii) a lower reservoir drain port arranged to allowdrainage of the water out of the reservoir tank. The livewell system mayalso include a second selector switch that is actuatable to adjust thesecond valve between each of: (i) a first arrangement in which the wateraccess port, the water supply pump, and the lower reservoir drain portare all in fluid communication with each other; (ii) a secondarrangement in which the water supply pump and the lower reservoir drainport are in fluid communication with each other while the water accessport is not in fluid communication with either of the water supply pumpor the lower reservoir drain port; and (iii) a third arrangement inwhich the water access port and the lower reservoir drain port are influid communication with each other while the water supply pump is notin fluid communication with either of the water access port or the lowerreservoir drain port. In some embodiments, the livewell system alsoincludes a lid that is reconfigurable between: (i) a closed position inwhich the lid covers a top opening of the reservoir tank and (ii) anopen position in which the top opening of the reservoir tank is notcovered by the lid. In some embodiments, while the lid is in the closedposition and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation,an airspace that is less than three inches high exists between the waterand the lid. In some embodiments, while the lid is in the closedposition and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation,an airspace that is less than two inches high exists between the waterand the lid. In some embodiments, while the lid is in the closedposition and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation,an airspace that is less than one inch high exists between the water andthe lid.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to a livewell system foruse on a boat. Such a livewell system includes a reservoir tank, a watersupply pump, an upper reservoir drain port, a drain tube, a first valve,a water level sensor, and a control system. The water supply pump isoperable to add water into the reservoir tank. The upper reservoir drainport is arranged to allow drainage of a portion of the water out of thereservoir tank when a level of the water in the reservoir tank is at afirst elevation. The drain tube is fluidly coupled to the upperreservoir drain port. The first valve is positioned along the draintube. The first valve is actuatable between: (i) an open configurationthat allows the portion of the water to drain out of the reservoir tankthrough the first valve and (ii) a closed configuration that blocks theportion of the water from draining out of the reservoir tank through thefirst valve. The water level sensor is arranged to output a high watersignal when a level of the water in the reservoir tank is at a secondelevation that is above the first elevation. The control system isarranged to receive the high water signal from the water level sensorand configured to output a signal to restrict further addition of waterinto the reservoir tank in response to receiving the high water signal.

Such a livewell system may optionally include one or more of thefollowing features. The signal to restrict further addition of water maycause stoppage of the water supply pump. The signal to restrict furtheraddition of water may actuate a valve. The livewell system may alsoinclude a first selector switch that is actuatable to cause the livewellsystem to operate in: (i) a first mode and (ii) a second mode. The firstvalve is in the open configuration while the livewell system isoperating in the first mode. The first valve is in the closedconfiguration while the livewell system is operating in the second mode.The livewell system may also include a second valve fluidly coupled to:(i) a water access port that extends through the hull, (ii) the watersupply pump and (iii) a lower reservoir drain port arranged to allowdrainage of the water out of the reservoir tank. The livewell system mayalso include a second selector switch that is actuatable to adjust thesecond valve between each of: (i) a first arrangement in which the wateraccess port, the water supply pump, and the lower reservoir drain portare all in fluid communication with each other; (ii) a secondarrangement in which the water supply pump and the lower reservoir drainport are in fluid communication with each other while the water accessport is not in fluid communication with either of the water supply pumpor the lower reservoir drain port; and (iii) a third arrangement inwhich the water access port and the lower reservoir drain port are influid communication with each other while the water supply pump is notin fluid communication with either of the water access port or the lowerreservoir drain port. In some embodiments, the livewell system alsoincludes a lid that is reconfigurable between: (i) a closed position inwhich the lid covers a top opening of the reservoir tank and (ii) anopen position in which the top opening of the reservoir tank is notcovered by the lid. In some embodiments, while the lid is in the closedposition and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation,an airspace that is less than three inches high exists between the waterand the lid. In some embodiments, while the lid is in the closedposition and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation,an airspace that is less than two inches high exists between the waterand the lid. In some embodiments, while the lid is in the closedposition and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation,an airspace that is less than one inch high exists between the water andthe lid.

Particular embodiments of the subject matter described in this documentcan be implemented to realize one or more of the following advantages.

The modes of operation of the livewell systems described herein include,at least, a first mode with a lower water level and a second mode with ahigher water level. While the livewell is operating in the first modewith the lower water level, the weight on board the boat is lessened.While the livewell is operating in the second mode with the higher waterlevel, the tank is nearly full of water. Accordingly, with a nearly fulltank, the water in the livewell will resist sloshing around turbulentlywhile the boat is navigating rough seas, while travelling at highspeeds, and/or while traveling over long distances. Accordingly, thehealth of the fish in the livewell will be protected because of thewater's lessened tendency to slosh around turbulently in the livewellwhile the livewell is operating in the second mode.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this invention pertains. The term “full tank of water”does not necessarily imply a completely full tank of water. For example,some air can still exist in the tank, and the tank would still beconsidered full of water. In some cases, a tank that is greater than orequal to about 90% water and 10% air can be considered “full of water.”

Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those describedherein can be used to practice the invention, suitable methods andmaterials are described herein. In addition, the materials, methods, andexamples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description herein. Other features,objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thedescription and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a fishing boat with a livewell system inaccordance with some embodiments provided herein.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are perspective views of an example livewell system inaccordance with some embodiments provided herein.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show a first partial assembly of the livewell system ofFIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show a second partial assembly of the livewell system ofFIGS. 2A and 2B.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show an assembly of the livewell system of FIGS. 2A and2B.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the livewell system of FIGS. 2A and 2B whilein a first mode of operation.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate the livewell system of FIGS. 2A and 2B whilein a second mode of operation.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the livewell system of FIGS. 2A and 2B whilein a third mode of operation.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate the livewell system of FIGS. 2A and 2B whilein a fourth mode of operation.

FIG. 10 shows an example livewell system with an open lid.

FIG. 11 shows the livewell system of FIG. 10 with the lid closed.

FIG. 12A shows an example livewell system with an inflatable bladder ina deflated state.

FIG. 12B shows the livewell system of FIG. 12A with the inflatablebladder in an inflated state.

Like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This document describes fishing boats and livewell systems. For example,this document describes livewell systems that have multiple modes ofoperation. The modes of operation include, at least, a first mode with alower water level and a second mode with a higher water level. While thelivewell is operating in the second mode, the tank is nearly full ofwater. Accordingly, with a nearly full tank, the water in the livewellwill resist turbulent sloshing around while the boat is navigating roughseas, travelling at high speeds, and/or travelling over long distances.Moreover, the health of the fish in the livewell will be protectedbecause of the water's lessened tendency to slosh around turbulently inthe livewell while the livewell is operating in the second mode.

As shown in FIG. 1A, in some cases a fishing boat 100 can include alivewell system 200. Non-limiting examples of fishing boats include bassfishing boats and deep-V fishing boats. It should be understood that thelivewell system 200 described herein can be used in conjunction with anytype of watercraft. The livewell system 200 can be integrated into aboat when the boat is manufactured. Alternatively, the livewell system200 can be sold as an after-market accessory and installed into a boatafter the boat has been manufactured.

The livewell system 200 of the fishing boat 100, as depicted, is locatedaft of a deck 120 of the fishing boat 100, and preferably in an aft orstern section of the fishing boat 100. However, the livewell system 200can be installed in any area of the fishing boat 100.

The livewell system 200 includes a reservoir tank 1. As depicted, thelivewell system 200 can be protected by a deck cover 108 (or fiberglasslid) that is configured to be opened or removed for an angler to gainaccess the livewell system 200 and the reservoir tank 1. The livewellsystem 200 can be used during mobile use of the fishing boat 100.

An additional example of a livewell system incorporated in a fishingboat is shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

Still referring to FIG. 1A, while one livewell system 200 is used on thefishing boat 100, some fishing boats can include more than one livewellsystem 200. For example, some fishing boats can have two livewellsystems positioned on the fishing boat and some fishing boats can havemore than two livewell systems. The intended function of the fishingboat will influence the layout of the livewell system(s) 200. Forexample, a larger fishing boat for three or more fishermen mayconveniently have multiple livewell systems 200.

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the fishing boat 100 along acut-plane 102 shown in FIG. 1A. The depth of the reservoir tank 1relative to the fishing boat 100, and in particular, the bottom 104 ofthe fishing boat 100, is readily apparent from this perspective.Furthermore, the angled bottom profile of the reservoir tank 1 isobservable.

FIG. 1C is a detail 106 (as indicated in FIG. 1B) of the fishing boat100. The deck cover 108 is pivotably connected to the fishing boat 100allowing the deck cover 108 to be pivoted upward using a hingedconnection (hinged axis 112 as shown in FIG. 1A) to the fishing boat100. The deck cover 108 includes a latch 110 that is actuatable betweena secured position, where the deck cover 108 is secured closed, and anunsecured position, where the deck cover 108 can be pivoted upwardallowing a fisherman access to the livewell system 200.

In operation, a fisherman would unlatch the latch 110 of deck cover 108and lift the deck cover 108 upward causing it to pivot on the hinge,revealing one or more reservoir lids (in this example there are twoplexiglass lids 202, 204) of the livewell system 200 underneath. Each ofthe plexiglass lids 202, 204 are part of the livewell system 200 and areconfigured to provide an essentially water tight seal of the respectivelivewell compartments 206, 208 of the livewell system 200. Eachplexiglass lid 202, 204 is sealed using gasket 212 that is partiallylocated in a gasket groove 214 that can be defined by the reservoir lids202, 204 or the compartments 206, 208. By sealing the livewellcompartments 206, 208 using the lids 202, 204, any splashing or overflowor water out from the livewell system 200 is reduced or essentiallyeliminated. Additionally, the plexiglass lids 202, 204 are preferablytransparent so a fisherman can view the contents of the livewell system200 with the plexiglass lids 202, 204 in a closed position.

Each plexiglass lid 202, 204 is individually pivotably connected to thereservoir tank 1 or elsewhere on the fishing boat 100 to allow eachplexiglass lid 202, 204 to be pivoted upward using a hinged connection.Each plexiglass lid 202, 204 includes a latch 210 that is manuallyadjustable to toggle between a secured position, where each plexiglasslid 202, 204 is secured closed and sealed, and an unsecured position,where each plexiglass lid 202, 204 can be pivoted upward allowing afisherman access to the livewell compartments 206, 208 of the livewellsystem 200.

In operation, a fisherman would unlatch the latch 210 of one or bothplexiglass lids 202, 204 and lift the respective plexiglass lid(s) 202,204 upward, causing it to pivot on the hinge and reveal an openrespective livewell compartment(s) 206, 208 of the livewell system 200underneath. Accessing the respective livewell compartments 206, 208allows a fisherman to insert and/or remove fish from the respectivecompartments 206, 208 of the livewell system 200.

While the deck cover 108 and the plexiglass lids 202, 204 (collectivelyreferred to as “lids”) are pivotably hinged to the fishing boat 100, insome livewell systems the lids can be configured to slide out of theway. For example, in some embodiments the lids are configured as one ormore sliding doors. In some livewell systems, the lids can be detachedfrom the livewell system and the fishing boat. In some livewell systems,the functionality of the lids are combined into a single lid.

When the plexiglass lids 202, 204 are in the closed position and thereservoir tank 1 is full of water, in some embodiments an airspace,defined by a vertical gap between the plexiglass lids 202, 204 and thewater level surface, is less than three inches. In some cases, theairspace is less than two inches high. In some cases, the airspace isless than one inch high. In some cases, no visible airspace gap exists.

While two compartments 206, 208 are shown in the livewell system 200,some livewell systems include a single compartment. Some livewellsystems include more than two compartments. For example, three or fourcompartments may be used with a livewell system while incorporating theinnovative aspects of the livewell systems as disclosed herein.

While the deck cover 108 is usually constructed from fiberglass, othermaterials such as plexiglass, plastic, wood, or metal (e.g., aluminum orstainless steel) can be used. While the plexiglass lids 202, 204 areconstructed from plexiglass, other materials such as fiberglass,plastics, or metals (e.g., aluminum or stainless steel) can be used.Preferably, these materials, and any materials described in thisspecification, would have corrosion resistance properties or coatings(such as anodizing) to reduce the effect of weathering and/or rusting. Aperson of skill-in-the-art would recognize that many materials could beused for such purposes.

While the deck cover 108 and plexiglass lids 202, 204 are shown in theclosed position, the livewell system 200 can be operated with the deckcover 108 and/or plexiglass lids 202, 204 in the open position. Forexample, when adding fish or removing fish from the livewell system 200.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the livewell system 200. The reservoirtank 1 forms the structure of the livewell system 200 and includessidewalls 222 and a bottom surface 224. The depicted exemplary livewellsystem 200 also includes an optional tank divider 12. The top surface ofthe reservoir tank 1 includes a lip 220 that radially extends from thesidewalls 204 and is configured to rest on, and be secured to, a matingsurface of the fishing boat 100.

The reservoir tank 1 is configured to hold a volume of water defined bythe size and separation of the sidewalls 222, and by the depth of thereservoir tank 1 defined by the bottom surface 224. It should beunderstood that the livewell system 200 is scalable to any desired size(e.g., in terms of water volume). For example, without limitation, insome example embodiments the reservoir tank 1 can hold about 30 gallonsof water in a full configuration and about 23 gallons in a 75% fullconfiguration (i.e., partially full).

The reservoir tank 1 can be constructed out of any suitable material. Insome embodiments, the reservoir tank 1 is constructed of fiberglass,however other materials such as plexiglass, plastic, wood, metal (e.g.,aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), and combinations of such materials,can be used.

The reservoir tank 1 is sized and shaped to be incorporated within thefishing boat 100. For example, in the depicted example, the reservoirtank 1 includes a mid-section 226 with a decreased width. The reservoirtank 1 can have a symmetrical or asymmetrical profile about the divider12. The bottom surface 224 can be sloped to be deeper at the location ofthe divider 12 and shallower far from the divider 12. This can help toallow proper drainage of the livewell system 200.

While the example reservoir tank 1 is sized and shaped as shown in FIG.2A, some reservoir tanks are skinnier, wider, and/or deeper (whileincorporating the innovative aspects of the livewell systems asdisclosed herein). The size and shape of the reservoir tank 1 depends onthe available design space of a particular fishing boat, but also on theintended purposes of the livewell system 200. In some fishing contexts(e.g., northern pike fishing), fish can be large and require a longerreservoir tank 1 to accommodate the larger fish. For example, muskiesare a popular sport fish in northern fishing environments and can growto be several feet in length. Conversely, in some fishing environmentswith smaller fish, such as bass, a smaller reservoir tank can besufficient.

The reservoir tank 1 includes the divider 12 that separates or dividesthe reservoir tank 1 into a first livewell compartment 206 and a secondlivewell compartment 208. The divider 12 can be designed to mount to andfunction with the reservoir tank 1 in various manners. The depictedexample divider 12 vertically slides into position in the reservoir tank1 to divide the livewell compartments 206, 208. Brackets 11 (best shownin FIG. 1C) can be mechanically connected to the divider 12 and slidablyengage grooves 35 located in the mid-section 226 of the reservoir tank 1to secure the divider 12 in place within the reservoir tank 1. Thegrooves 35 are oriented vertically, and have a groove width greater thana width of the bracket 11 to allow sliding clearance of the bracket 11within the grooves 35. In some cases, a slight interference fit betweenthe bracket 11 and the grooves 35 is used to secure the divider 12 inplace. The divider 12 is constructed from a hard plastic and is nearlyrigid to reduce deformation, but other materials can be used.

The divider 12 can include multiple openings 228 that allow water tofreely flow (i.e., fluidly communicate) between the two livewellcompartments 206, 208. The divider 12 functions to segregate fishlocated in the first livewell compartment 206 from mixing with fishlocated in the second livewell compartment 208. Segregating fish isparticularly important in a tournament-fishing situation where two ormore people in a single fishing boat are competing with each other. Inthese cases, it is important to segregate the fish for scoring purposes.In some cases, it is important to segregate fish that would otherwise beadversarial towards each other.

As previously mentioned, the size of the reservoir tank 1 depends on theintended fish to be stored within the livewell system 200, andtherefore, it is beneficial to allow the divider 12 to be easilyremovable by a fisherman without tools.

While the divider 12 is shown with an array of circular openings 228,some livewell systems use other types of openings. Some dividers includeslot openings or square openings instead of circular openings. Somedividers include mesh-like or screen-like openings. Some dividers haveopenings that vary in diameter so that smaller diameter openings areused with smaller fish. Some dividers have a circular array or hexagonalarray of openings.

While the divider 12 is used with the livewell system 200, some livewellsystems do not use a divider. This is preferable for small livewellsystems and fishing boats with several livewell systems.

While the divider 12 is slidably engaged with the reservoir tank 1, somelivewell systems include a divider that is pivotably hinged to areservoir tank. In this case, hinges are located on one side of thereservoir tank and the divider can pivot from an open position, whereone large compartment exists, to a closed position, where the twocompartments 206, 208 become segregated as shown in FIG. 2A.

Some livewell systems include a divider that includes two halves. Afirst half is pivotably hinged to a reservoir tank on one side, and asecond half is pivotably hinged to the reservoir tank on the oppositeside of the first half. This allows the divider to open and close like aset of double-doors.

While the divider 12 allows fluid communication between each of the twocompartments 206, 208 within the reservoir tank 1, some livewell systemsinclude a divider that does not allow fluid communication between eachof the two divided compartments. Such a case is beneficial in largerlivewell systems when only a subset of the livewell is needed at a giventime (e.g., one fisherman with only small fish). Instead of filling anentire livewell system, only one half of the livewell needs to containwater. This can provide weight and therefore performance benefits to afishing boat. In this case, the divider can be sealed to prevent fluidcommunication between the two compartments. In this case, the dividerdoes not contain openings and provides an essentially water-tight sealbetween the two compartments.

With reference now also to FIGS. 2B, 3A, and 3B, various fluidconnection ports of the reservoir tank 1 allow water to be injectedinto, drained from, and siphoned from, the reservoir tank 1 of thelivewell system 200. In general, the fluid connection paths used withthe livewell system 200 can be provided by flexible tubing 28 (e.g., ¾″size or any other suitable size) and clamps 29 on each end of the tubing28 to form a fluid tight connection among the components of the livewellsystem 200.

A spray head 4 is located on a sidewall 222 of the reservoir tank 1 andis configured to spray water into the reservoir tank 1 through one ormore openings. The spray head 4 has two modes of operation. In a firstmode, water is sprayed into the reservoir tank 1 to add water to thereservoir tank 1. In a second mode, water is not sprayed into thereservoir tank 1 and is instead redirected to a discharge port 27.1 on abilge plate 27 mounted on the hull of the fishing boat 100 (thedischarge port 27.1 is shown in FIG. 5A).

The spray head 4 is configured to be manually toggled from the firstmode into the second mode by manually pulling the spray head 4 in adirection 4.2 towards the interior of the reservoir tank 1 (direction4.2 is shown in FIG. 2B). Spray head 4 includes a small hole 4.1 tocreate venturi effect as water exits the spray head 4 into the reservoirtank 1. The small hole 4.1 siphons air into the sprayed water to aeratethe water. Aeration allows the fish within the reservoir tank 1 tobreathe oxygenated water.

An overflow drain 33 (or upper reservoir drain port) is located on asidewall 222 opposite the spray head 4 and includes a drain screen(e.g., 1⅛″ or other suitable size). The overflow drain 33 is configuredfor discharging water from the reservoir tank 1 so that the water leveldoes not exceed the vertical elevation of the overflow drain 33.Depending on the setting of the livewell system 200, discharging watermay be restricted, by a closed setting of an overflow valve 7, fromflowing through the overflow drain 33.

A pair of drains 32.1, 32.2 (collectively “drains” 32) are located on abottom surface of the reservoir tank 1 and are configured to providedrain water from the reservoir tank 1 for discharge or forrecirculation, depending on the operational mode of the livewell system200. The drains 32.1, 32.2 can include filters or screens to limitdebris in the reservoir tank 1 from entering the plumbing of thelivewell system 200.

The spray head 4 is fluidly connected to a water supply pump 10.1 thatis configured to pump water into reservoir tank 1. In some embodiments,the water supply pump 10.1 is capable of providing about 800 gallons perhour of water flow, but other pump capacities can be used with thelivewell system 200.

The water supply pump 10.1 is electrically controlled by a fill switch25 configured to turn the water supply pump 10.1 on and off. The watersupply pump 10.1 is electrically connected to a power source (e.g., a 12volt battery, not shown) within the fishing boat 100.

The water supply pump 10.1 is fluidly connected to a three-way valve 8that is controlled by a livewell control knob 24. The livewell controlknob 24 is configured to allow a user to select between three modes ofoperation: “auto,” “empty,” and “recirculate.” When the livewell controlknob 24 is in the “auto” position, a three-way valve 8 allows water tobe pumped in from outside of the fishing boat 100 (e.g., from a pond orlake), through a thru-hull filter 21 (e.g., ¾″ or any other suitablesize) and a thru-hull fitting 20 (e.g., ¾″ or any other suitable size).Water is allowed to enter the livewell system 200 through the thru-hullfitting 20, through the three-way valve 8, through the water supply pump10.1, to the spray head 4, and into the reservoir tank 1.

The other modes of operation (i.e., “empty” and “recirculate” modes)will be described later in this specification. During use, the fillswitch 25 is toggled into the “on” position. If, at any point of theoperation the fill switch 25 is toggled into the “off” position, thewater supply pump 10.1 is turned off and the filling process is stopped.

When the livewell control knob 24 is in the “auto” mode, water is pumpedinto the reservoir tank 1 and the water level increases. The water leveleventually reaches the vertical elevation of the spray head 4. If thewater level is increased still farther, the small hole 4.1 becomesblocked and aeration from the spray head 4 stops.

When the water level reaches the vertical elevation of an overflow drain33, water flows into the overflow drain 33, through an overflow fitting3, through an overflow valve 7, and out of the livewell system 200through a discharge port 30.1 (of a set of ports 30) that is located ina thru-hull location of the fishing boat 100.

The overflow valve 7 is mechanically connected to a volume control knob23. The volume control knob 23 is configured to operate as a switch toallow a user to select between at least two modes of operation including“normal” and “full.” When the volume control knob 23 is in “normal”mode, the water level in the reservoir tank 1 does not exceed theoverflow drain 33, as previously described. Instead, any water above awater level defined by the overflow drain 33 is discharged through thedischarge port 30.1.

The overflow valve 7, which is positioned along a drain tube, ismanually actuatable using the volume control knob 23 between: (i) anopen configuration that allows a portion of the water to drain out ofthe reservoir tank 1 through the overflow valve 7 and (ii) a closedconfiguration that blocks the portion of the water from draining out ofthe reservoir tank through the overflow valve 7. When the volume controlknob 23 is in “full” mode, the overflow valve 7 is moved into a closedpositon so water cannot be discharged from the livewell system 200. Inthis case, the water level in the reservoir tank 1 can increase beyondthe elevation of the overflow drain 33 and the spray head 4.

To avoid back-flow through the spray head 4 when the water supply pump10.1 is not running, the back-flow preventer or one-way valve 6 preventswater from flowing through the one-way valve 6 and back through tubingline to the thru-hull connector 21 and out of the livewell system 200.The one-way valve 6 only permits water to flow into the reservoir tank1, but water cannot leave the reservoir tank 1 through the one-way valve6, even when the water supply pump 10.1 is off.

As the water level increases above the overflow drain 33, the waterlevel eventually reaches a water level sensor 14. In some embodiments,the water level sensor 14 is a proximity sensor that senses the presenceof water through a sidewall of the reservoir tank 1 (e.g., using anultrasonic sensor). However, many other types water level sensors can beused with the livewell system 200. For example, a float style switch, anoptical sensor, and other types of sensors/switches can be used tomeasure the water level in the reservoir tank 1. In the depictedembodiment, the water level sensor 14 is mounted on a switch plate 13 ona sidewall of the reservoir tank 1.

The vertical elevation and detection sensitivity of the water levelsensor 14 define the “full” water level configuration of the tank. Forexample, in the example implementation shown in FIG. 3A, the verticalelevation of the water level sensor 14 is established such that thewater level sensor 14 is triggered when the reservoir tank 1 meets orexceeds about a 90% full level. In some livewell systems, the waterlevel sensor 14 is triggered when the water level reaches about 95% ofthe capacity of the reservoir tank 1, and in other livewell systems, itis about 85%. A person of skill in the art will recognize that thevertical elevation of the water level sensor 14 can be positioned at anydesired elevation along a sidewall of the reservoir tank 1. In someembodiments, the vertical elevation of the water level sensor 14 (e.g.,the position of the water level sensor 14 relative to the reservoir tank1) is adjustable by the user of the livewell system 200.

In some embodiments, the livewell system 200 includes multiple waterlevel sensors 14 positioned at differing elevations on the reservoirtank 1. In some such embodiments, the user can controllably select whichwater level sensor of the multiple water level sensors 14 is/areoperational (thereby selectively controlling the level of water in thereservoir tank 1).

When the water level reaches the water level sensor 14, an electricalcontrol signal is sent from the water level sensor 14 to a fluid levelcontrol unit 16. The fluid level control unit 16 includes electricalcircuitry or a microprocessor for interpreting the signal of the waterlevel sensor 14 and for controlling the water supply pump 10.1 inresponse thereto. When the water level sensor 14 signals to the fluidlevel control unit 16 that the water level has reached the verticalposition of the water level sensor 14 (i.e., a high water signal), thefluid level control unit 16 responsively sends a control command to thewater supply pump 10.1 to stop fluid flow to restrict the addition ofwater into the reservoir tank 1. For example, the signal can cause astoppage of water flow of the water supply pump 10.1 by removing powerto the water supply pump 10.1.

In some livewell systems, the fluid level control unit 16 sends acontrol signal to open the overflow valve 7 to reduce water in thereservoir tank 1.

In some livewell systems, more than one water level sensors 14 are used.For example, a livewell system can have two or three water level sensorsso that multiple water levels can be maintained in the reservoir tank 1.Such a configuration would allow a livewell system to have a “low”,“halfway”, and “full” water level. A person of skill in the art wouldrecognize that a nearly infinite number of water level sensors could beused to provide a nearly continuous range of water level options for alivewell system.

In some livewell systems, more than one water level sensors are used toincrease the reliability of the water level measurement. For example,two water levels sensors can be positioned horizontally to one anotherto provide two independent measurements for the water level. Thismeasurement information is then analyzed by the fluid level control unit16 to determine the water level.

In some livewell systems, the fluid level control unit 16 alerts a userthat the water level has reached a certain elevation. In some cases, thealert is audible using a speaker. In some cases, an LED on the desk ofthe fishing boat 100 is illuminated to indicate the water level.

At this point additional water no longer flows into the reservoir tank 1and the filling process is stopped. When the water level decreases fromthe water level sensor 14 (e.g., from splashing out of the reservoirtank 1), the fluid level control unit 16 sends a control command to thewater supply pump 10.1 to resume fluid flow and the filling processcontinues. To account for sloshing or tilting variability of the waterin the reservoir tank 1, the fluid level control unit 16 can beconfigured to analyze the water level over a predetermined time period.For example, in some cases, water splashing on the sidewall adjacent tothe water level sensor 14 can create false alarms. These false alarmsare reduced by analyzing the water level over the predetermined timeperiod. For example, the predetermined time period can be two or threeseconds. In some cases, the predetermined time period is less than twoseconds (e.g., one second) and in other cases, the predetermined timeperiod is greater than three seconds (e.g., ten seconds). This processis repeated until the fill switch 25 is turned off.

The recirculation functionality of the livewell system 200 will now bedescribed with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B (in addition to thepreviously-referred to FIGs.).

Drain 32.1 (of a set of drains 32) is fluidly connected to fitting 34.1(of a set of fittings 34) on the underside of the reservoir tank 1 (bestseen in FIG. 5B). Drain 32.1 and fitting 34.1 are fluidly connected to arecirculation pump 10.2 (of a set of pumps 10) that is configured torecirculate and aerate water in the reservoir tank 1. In particular, therecirculation pump 10.2 is configured to pump water from the reservoirtank 1, through a tubing loop 28.1 on exhaust side of recirculation pump10.2 to a T-fitting 5 (e.g., ¾″ or any other suitable size) where thewater is split in two directions. Water then flows to a pair ofunderwater venturi fittings 2 on each side of the reservoir tank 1. Theunderwater venturi fittings 2 aerate the water by drawing in ambient airfrom above the deck of the fishing boat 100 through fittings 2.1, 2.2.The aerated water flows back into the reservoir tank 1 and the water isrecirculated.

The recirculation pump 10.2 is electrically connected to a recirculateswitch 26 that turns the recirculation functionality of the livewellsystem 200 on and off. When the recirculate switch 26 is toggled intothe “on” position, power is provided to the recirculation pump 10.2 andwater is recirculated in the reservoir tank 1. When the switch 26 istoggled into the “off” position, the recirculation pump 10.2 is stoppedso recirculation of the water in the reservoir tank 1, using therecirculation pump 10.2, does not occur. However, it is possible to usethe water supply pump 10.1 in a recirculation mode that will bedescribed later in this specification.

A timer 17 is electrically connected to the recirculate switch 26 andthe recirculation pump 10.2 to allow pulsed recirculation. For example,the timer can be configured to allow the recirculation pump 10.2 torecirculate the water for 3 minutes, followed by a period wherecirculation is off for 2 minutes (or any other suitable pattern). Thisprocess is then repeated.

Drain 32.2 is fluidly connected to fitting 34.2 on the underside of thereservoir tank 1 (best seen in FIG. 5B). Drain 32.2 and fitting 34.2 arefluidly connected to the three-way valve 8 that was referenced in thepreviously mentioned filling process. The three-way valve 8 isconfigured to direct the drain water from the livewell system 200 toeither (i) the thru-hull fitting 20 for discharge or (ii) the watersupply pump 10.1 for recirculation or forceful discharge. Flowdirectional control of the three-way valve 8 is controlled using thelivewell control knob 24. When the livewell control knob 24 is in the“auto” position, the three-way valve 8 allows water to be pumped in fromoutside of the fishing boat 100, as previously described. However, drainwater from the reservoir tank 1 is also allowed to mix with waterentering from the lake. This mixing provides circulation of water in thereservoir tank 1 in addition to the circulation capability describedusing the circulation pump 10.2. Livewell system 200 provides twoindependent methods for circulating water in the reservoir tank 1.

The three-wave-valve 8 is configured to mix the intake water and thedrain water of the reservoir tank 1. In principle, the mixing works inaccordance with a difference in head pressure. The water level in thereservoir tank 1 relative to the water level in the lake where thefishing boat 100 is located causes a difference in head pressure. Whenthe water level in the reservoir tank 1 increases, more head pressure isdeveloped and therefore more water flows through the drain towards thethree-way valve 8. This drain water is mixed with inlet water from thelake. In some cases, a full reservoir tank represents about 70%recirculation and 30% water directly from the lake. However, this valuevaries depending on water level of the reservoir tank 1 relative to thelake, as previously described. Additionally, a backflow preventerlocated between the intake hose and the three-way valve 8 prevents thereservoir tank 1 from losing water when the livewell control knob is setin the “auto” position.

The draining functionality of the livewell system 200 will now bedescribed with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

Drain 32.2 is fluidly connected to fitting 34.2 on the underside of thereservoir tank 1 (best seen in FIG. 5B). Drain 32.2 and fitting 34.2 arefluidly connected to the three-way valve 8 that was referenced in thepreviously mentioned filling process. The three-way valve 8 isconfigured to direct the drain water from the livewell system 200 toeither (i) the thru-hull fitting 20 or (ii) the water supply pump 10.1.Flow directional control of the three-way valve 8 is controlled usingthe livewell control knob 24. By rotating the livewell control knob 24into the “empty” position, water will drain from the reservoir tank 1the thru-hull fitting 20 using gravity (i.e., naturally). In this case,fill switch 25 is toggled into the “off” position so that the watersupply pump 10.1 stops the flow of water into the reservoir tank 1.

A gravity drain mode is typically used when the fishing boat 100 ismounted on a trailer for transport. The water flows from the drain 32.2through the three-way valve 8, and out of the livewell system 200through the thru-hull fitting 20. However, in some cases, forcefullypumping the water out of the livewell system 200 can be preferable togravity draining. Typically, the fishing boat 100 returns to the dockwith fish in the livewell system 200 and the fish need to be removedfrom the reservoir tank 1. However, the fish will be swimming around inthe water and are hard to grab. To resolve this issue, the reservoirtank 1 is drained, but using the gravity drain can take a long time todrain the reservoir tank 1 to levels where it is easy to grab the fish.Pumping water out of the reservoir tank 1 is usually faster than gravitydraining. With less water in the reservoir tank 1 it is easier to grabfish in the tank 1 by hand.

By rotating the livewell control knob 24 into the “recirculate”position, water will flow from the drain 34.2 of the reservoir tank 1,through the one-way valve 8, towards the water supply pump 10.1, to thespray head 4. In this case, fill switch 25 is toggled into the “on”position so that the water supply pump 10.1 pumps water. The drain wateris pumped to the spray head 4 and back into the reservoir tank 1. Hence,the livewell water is recirculated.

However, by manually toggling the spray head 4 from a mode for sprayingwater into the reservoir tank 1 to a mode for ejecting water from thelivewell system 200, as previously described, the drain water is notrecirculated back into the reservoir tank 1. Instead, the drain water isredirected from the spray head 4 to the opening 27.1 of the bilge plate27 and forcefully ejected from the livewell system 200.

The switches 25, 26 and the control knobs 23, 24 are preferably locatedon the dash of the fishing boat 100. In some boats, the switches 25, 26and control knobs 23, 24 are located at the driver's right hand on thehelm seat. In some boats, the switches 25, 26 and control knobs 23, 24are located behind the driver's seat to utilize the available designspace of the boat.

The fill switch 25 of the livewell system 200 controls the power to thewater supply pump 10.1 so that the water supply pump 10.1 is either onor off. The fluid level control unit 16 overrides the control commandfrom the fill switch 25 to the water supply pump 10.1 when the waterlevel of the reservoir tank 1 has reached the full capacity of thereservoir tank 1.

The recirculate switch 26 of the livewell system 200 controls the powerto the recirculation pump 10.2 so that the recirculation pump 10.2 iseither on or off. The timer 17 overrides the control command from therecirculate switch 26 to the recirculation pump 10.2 so that the powercan be pulsed as previously described.

The volume control knob 23 of the livewell system 200 is used as acontrol device that effects the water level in the reservoir tank 1. Thevolume control knob 23 mechanically communicates with the overflow valve7 to switch the livewell system 200 between a first state of partiallyfilling and maintaining the partially-filled water level and a secondstate of completely filling and maintaining the full water level. Thepartially full state is defined by the vertical elevation of theoverflow drain 33. The full state is defined by the vertical elevationof the water level sensor 14.

While the vertical elevation of the overflow drain 33 is shown torepresent about 75% water capacity of the reservoir tank 1, somelivewell systems can have overflow drains positioned for other partiallyfull water levels. For example, some livewell systems include overflowdrains that are vertically located to provide and maintain a 25%partially full reservoir tank 1. Some livewell systems include overflowdrains that are vertically located to provide and maintain a 50%partially full reservoir tank 1, or any other partially full level.

While the volume control knob 23 mechanically controls the overflowvalve 7, some livewell systems include volume control knobs thatelectrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically control overflow valves.

The livewell control knob 24 of the livewell system 200 controls therecirculation, filling, and emptying of the reservoir tank 1. Thelivewell control knob 24 mechanically communicates with the three-wayvalve 8 to switch the livewell system 200 among a first state ofrecirculating the water within the reservoir tank 1, a second state ofemptying the reservoir tank 1, and a third state of filling thereservoir tank 1.

While the livewell control knob 24 mechanically controls thethree-wave-valve 8, some livewell systems include livewell control knobsthat electrically, pneumatically, or hydraulically control three-wayvalves.

Some livewell systems only have livewell control knob 24. In this case,there is no possibility to adjust the volume of water in the reservoirtank 1. In contrast, Livewell system 200 includes the livewell controlknob 24 so that water level can be adjusted and maintained duringoperation of the fishing boat 100.

The livewell system 200 has the ability to flood the reservoir tank 1and maintain the flooded volume. The overflow valve 7 either allowswater to discharge from the system to maintain a partial water level inthe tank, or prevents water from discharging from the reservoir tank 1,therefore allowing the water level to increase. The one-way valve 6prevents water from back-flowing through the system and therefore beingdischarged from the livewell system 200. The water level sensor 14 andthe fluid level control unit 16 electrically communicate with the watersupply pump 10.1 to allow the livewell system 200 to maintain either apartial or a full water level.

The various operation modes of the livewell system 200 will now bedescribed with reference to FIGS. 6A-9B.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a typical partial water level mode for thelivewell system 200. With reference to FIG. 6B, the volume control knob23 is set to “normal” volume and the livewell control knob 24 is set to“auto.” The fill switch 25 is toggled into the “on” position, enablingthe water supply pump 10.1 to start flowing. The recirculate switch 26may also be toggled on, but this functionality is not illustrated indetail in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

The water supply pump 10.1 immediately starts pumping water from thelake (represented in the direction of the arrow 252) into the livewellsystem 200. The water supply pump forces inflow from the lake throughthe three-way valve 8 and directs the water to the spray head 4 and intothe reservoir tank 1. When the water level 250 reaches the verticalelevation of the overflow drain 33, the water begins to gravity drainthrough overflow drain 33, through the overflow valve 7, and isdischarged back into the lake (e.g., as represented by arrow 253). Thefluid flow path is illustrated using arrows, beginning with intake arrow252 to the discharge arrow 253.

The fishing boat 100 may rock and the water level 250 may not remainsteady. In some cases, the water level can temporarily drop because toomuch water is discharged by the overflow drain 22 due to sloshing in thereservoir tank 1. However, in these cases, the water supply pump 10.1will continue to run to replenish the water so that the water level 250is maintained.

FIG. 6A also illustrates the circulation functionality of the watersupply pump 10.1 in conjunction with the livewell control knob being inthe “auto” position. In this case, water flows through the drain of thereservoir tank 1 and mixes with water coming from the lake in thethree-way valve 8. The water is pumped through the water supply pump10.1 and flows back into the reservoir tank 1 by the spray head 4.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a typical recirculation livewell mode for thelivewell system 200. With reference to FIG. 7B, the volume control knob23 is set to “normal” volume and the livewell control knob 24 is set to“recirculate.” The fill switch 25 is toggled into the “on” position,enabling the water supply pump 10.1 to start flowing. The recirculateswitch 26 may also be toggled on, but this functionality is notillustrated in detail in FIGS. 7A and 7B. Note that the recirculateswitch 26 controls the circulation pump 10.2.

The water supply pump 10.1 immediately starts drawing water from thedrain of the reservoir tank 1 and pumping in back into the reservoirtank 1 through the spray head. This recirculation is represented by aseries of arrows. Water from the lake does not enter the system in thismode.

However, any water that sloshes into the overflow drain 33 is dischargedfrom the livewell system 200. Therefore, it is possible to have adecreasing water level 250 over time when the livewell system 200 isoperated in this recirculation mode.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate a typical gravity emptying functionality forthe livewell system 200. With reference to FIG. 8B, the volume controlknob 23 is set to “normal” volume and the livewell control knob 24 isset to “empty.” The fill switch 25 is toggled into the “off” position,so that the water supply pump 10.1 is not powered. The recirculateswitch 26 may also be toggled on, but this functionality is notillustrated in detail in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

The three-wave-valve 8 opens to allow water to be gravity-drained fromthe livewell system 200. Water flows through the three-way valve 8 andout into the lake (represented by arrow 256). Notably, the thru-hullfitting 20 provides both water inlet and discharge functionality in thelivewell system 200.

In some cases, a forceful ejection of water can be used in addition tothe gravity drain. By toggling on the fill switch 25, the water supplypump 10.1 will begin to recirculate the water back into the reservoirtank 1 through the spray head 4. However, the water pressure will bevery low since most of the water is being discharged from the livewellsystem 200 in the direction of the arrow 245. Preferably, one wouldrotate the livewell control knob to “recirculate” in addition tomanually toggling the spray head 4 into a discharge mode, e.g., bypulling the head of the spray head 4 towards the interior of thereservoir tank 1 as previously described. This action will cause thewater will be forcefully diverted out of the livewell system 200 throughthe opening 27.1 and back into the lake.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate a typical full livewell functionality for thelivewell system 200. With reference to FIG. 9B, the volume control knob23 is set to “full” volume and the livewell control knob 24 is set to“auto.” The fill switch 25 is toggled into the “on” position, enablingthe water supply pump 10.1 to start flowing. The recirculate switch 26may also be toggled on, but this functionality is not illustrated indetail in FIGS. 9A and 9B.

The water supply pump 10.1 immediately starts drawing water from thedrain of the reservoir tank 1 and from the lake (represented by arrow252) and pumps the water into the reservoir tank 1 through the sprayhead 4. Because the volume control knob 23 is set to “full,” theoverflow valve 7 is closed so that no water can be discharged from thereservoir tank 1 through the overflow drain 33.

Another mode of operation is possible by rotating the volume controlswitch 23 to a rotary position between the “normal” and “full” markers.For example, if the volume switch is half way between the “normal” and“full” markers, then the mechanical linkage controlling the overflowvalve 7 is opened approximately halfway. This allows some water to bedischarged from the system, but generally not as much as would be if thevolume switch was in the “normal” position (which would be fully open).In these cases, the water supply pump 10.1 could add water to thereservoir tank 1 faster than an amount that is discharged through theoverflow valve 7. Once the water level reaches the water level sensor14, the water supply pump 10.1 shuts off, and some water would likelysplash out or seep out of the reservoir tank 1 during use. When thewater level falls below the water level sensor 14, the water supply pump10.1 begins to pump fresh water back into the reservoir tank 1. Thiscycle can continue as time goes on.

This can be advantageous when fishing in hot climates, such as southernFlorida, where the air temperature could reach 100-110 degreesFahrenheit. In these climates, the water temperature is especially warm,so an ability to control how much fresh water versus how muchrecirculation water is used, in addition to the volume of water in thereservoir tank 1, can be helpful to maintain a cooler livewell watertemperature. Cooler water temperature in the livewell is important forpreserving the caught fish, because as water temperature decreases, thedissolved oxygen content in the water increases, which is a betterenvironment for preserving the caught fish.

While the above description of the livewell system 200 mitigates theissue of water sloshing by filling the reservoir tank to very close tothe top lid, other livewell features/designs for accomplishing areduction of sloshing are also envisioned. For example, as shown inFIGS. 12A and 12B, in some embodiments an inflatable bladder 300 can beused to increase the water level 250 or to substantially fill theairspace between the top of the water level 250 in the tank 1 and thelid 201 of the tank 1. That is, when there is a need to mitigatesloshing the bladder 300 can be inflated. When the bladder 300 isinflated, it can displace water to make the water level 250 rise and/orcan fill much or all of the airspace (the “splash zone”) and therebyreduce the potential for water in the tank 1 to slosh around.

In FIGS. 12A and 12B, the livewell system 200 includes an inflatablebladder 300. The inflatable bladder 300 can be located within the tank 1and can be selectively inflated by receiving air from an air pump 310.The air pump 310 can be operatively activated to inflate and/or deflatethe bladder 300 by a user who can flip a switch, push a button, and thelike. In some cases, the depicted livewell system 200 that includes theinflatable bladder 300 can additionally have some, none, or all of thefeatures of the livewell systems described above.

In FIG. 12A, the inflatable bladder 300 is shown in a deflated state.The water level 250 is far below the top of the tank 1. Accordingly, a“splash zone” exists above the surface of the water level 250 and thelid 201. In order to reduce the potential for the water to slosh aroundin the tank 1, the bladder 300 can be inflated as depicted in FIG. 12B.

In FIG. 12B, the inflatable bladder 300 is shown in an inflated state.In response, the water level 250 is raised to essentially the top of thetank 1 as a result of the increased amount of volume within the tank 1that is taken up by the inflated/enlarged inflatable bladder 300. Saidanother way, the enlarged bladder 300 displaces water to make the waterlevel 250 rise in the tank 1. Accordingly, it can be envisioned that theinflation of the bladder 300 can be used to mitigate the issue of watersloshing in the tank 1 by displacing water and thereby causing the waterlevel 250 in the reservoir tank 1 to be at or very close to the top lid201.

In some embodiments, the air pump 310 can also be activated to draw airout of the inflatable bladder 300 (to reduce the volume of theinflatable bladder 300). In such a case, the water level 250 can bereduced from a high level as shown in FIG. 12B to a lower water level250 as shown in FIG. 12A, for example. Any water level 250 therebetweencan be selected by a user in accordance with the extent to which theinflatable bladder 300 is inflated by the user.

While in the depicted embodiment the inflatable bladder 300 is shown asbeing attached to a sidewall of the tank 1, it should be understood thatthe inflatable bladder 300 can be positioned at various locations in thetank 1. For example, in some embodiments the inflatable bladder 300 canbe positioned on the bottom of the tank 1. In some embodiments, theinflatable bladder 300 can be positioned on other sidewalls of the tank1. Some embodiments can include two or more inflatable bladders 300. Ineach of these examples, the inflation of the bladder 300 displaces waterin the tank 1 and thereby causes the water level 250 to rise.

In some embodiments, the inflatable bladder 300 can be positioned onbottom surface of the lid 201 of the tank 1. In such a case, theinflatable bladder 300 can be inflated/enlarged to fill the air spacebetween the surface of the water level 250 and the lid 201. This canalso serve to mitigate sloshing of the water in the tank 1, byeliminating the “splash zone” between the surface of the water level 250and the lid 201. In some embodiments, a first inflatable bladder 300 canbe located on an interior wall of the tank 1 and a second inflatablebladder 300 can be located on a bottom surface of the lid 201 of thetank 1.

While the livewell systems described above are designed to be able tofunction in multiple modes of operation, embodiments of single modelivewell systems are also envisioned and are within the scope of thisdisclosure. For example, some single mode livewell system embodimentsaccording to the present disclosure are designed to operate such thatthe reservoir is filled, or essentially filled, with water all of thetime that the livewell system is in use. Embodiments of this type caninclude devices for causing the upper surface of the water in the tankto be maintained at an elevation close to the top of the reservoir (tothereby mitigate the potential for water sloshing). For example, somesuch embodiments include a water level sensor that is positioned closeto the top of the reservoir. Such a water level sensor can be any typeof suitable sensor (e.g., float switch, ultrasonic sensor, opticalsensor, conductivity sensor, and the like). When water is detected bythe water level sensor, a signal output from the sensor can be used tocease additional rising of the water level in the reservoir.Additionally, or alternatively, some such embodiments include one ormore drain ports positioned close to the top of the reservoir for thesame purpose. In some cases, such a water level sensor and/or drain portcan be elevation-adjustable relative to the reservoir. That is, whilethe water level sensor and/or drain port can be positioned close to thetop of the reservoir, the water level sensor and/or drain port also canbe repositioned to a lower elevation relative to the reservoir. Suchreposition can be performed manually, automatically, orsemi-automatically. In such a case, the single mode livewell system canbe made to operate to control the level of the water at variouselevations in the reservoir as desired.

While this specification contains many specific implementation details,these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of anyinvention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions offeatures that may be specific to particular embodiments of particularinventions. Certain features that are described in this specification inthe context of separate embodiments can also be implemented incombination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features thatare described in the context of a single embodiment can also beimplemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitablesubcombination. Moreover, although features may be described herein asacting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, oneor more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excisedfrom the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to asubcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particularorder, this should not be understood as requiring that such operationsbe performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, orthat all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirableresults. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processingmay be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system modulesand components in the embodiments described herein should not beunderstood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and itshould be understood that the described program components and systemscan generally be integrated together in a single product or packagedinto multiple products.

Particular embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Otherembodiments are within the scope of the following claims. For example,the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different orderand still achieve desirable results. As one example, the processesdepicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require theparticular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirableresults. In certain implementations, multitasking and parallelprocessing may be advantageous.

What is claimed is:
 1. A boat comprising: a hull; and a livewell system comprising: a reservoir tank; a water supply pump operable to add water into the reservoir tank; an upper reservoir drain port arranged to allow drainage of a portion of the water out of the reservoir tank when a level of the water in the reservoir tank is at a first elevation; a drain tube fluidly coupled to the upper reservoir drain port; a first valve positioned along the drain tube, the first valve being actuatable between: (i) an open configuration that allows the portion of the water to drain out of the reservoir tank through the first valve and (ii) a closed configuration that blocks the portion of the water from draining out of the reservoir tank through the first valve; a water level sensor arranged to output a high water signal when a level of the water in the reservoir tank is at a second elevation that is above the first elevation; and a control system arranged to receive the high water signal from the water level sensor and configured to output a signal to restrict further addition of water into the reservoir tank in response to receiving the high water signal.
 2. The boat of claim 1, wherein the signal to restrict further addition of water causes stoppage of the water supply pump.
 3. The boat of claim 1, wherein the signal to restrict further addition of water actuates a valve.
 4. The boat of claim 1, wherein the livewell system further comprises: a first selector switch that is actuatable to cause the livewell system to operate in: (i) a first mode and (ii) a second mode, and wherein the first valve is in the open configuration while the livewell system is operating in the first mode, and wherein the first valve is in the closed configuration while the livewell system is operating in the second mode.
 5. The boat of claim 4, wherein the livewell system further comprises: a second valve fluidly coupled to: (i) a water access port that extends through the hull, (ii) the water supply pump and (iii) a lower reservoir drain port arranged to allow drainage of the water out of the reservoir tank; and a second selector switch that is actuatable to adjust the second valve between each of: a first arrangement in which the water access port, the water supply pump, and the lower reservoir drain port are all in fluid communication with each other; a second arrangement in which the water supply pump and the lower reservoir drain port are in fluid communication with each other while the water access port is not in fluid communication with either of the water supply pump or the lower reservoir drain port; and a third arrangement in which the water access port and the lower reservoir drain port are in fluid communication with each other while the water supply pump is not in fluid communication with either of the water access port or the lower reservoir drain port.
 6. The boat of claim 1, wherein the livewell system further comprises a lid that is reconfigurable between: (i) a closed position in which the lid covers a top opening of the reservoir tank and (ii) an open position in which the top opening of the reservoir tank is not covered by the lid.
 7. The boat of claim 6, wherein, while the lid is in the closed position and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation an airspace that is less than three inches high exists between the water and the lid.
 8. The boat of claim 6, wherein, while the lid is in the closed position and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation an airspace that is less than two inches high exists between the water and the lid.
 9. The boat of claim 6, wherein, while the lid is in the closed position and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation an airspace that is less than one inch high exists between the water and the lid.
 10. A livewell system for use on a boat, the livewell system comprising: a reservoir tank; a water supply pump operable to add water into the reservoir tank; an upper reservoir drain port arranged to allow drainage of a portion of the water out of the reservoir tank when a level of the water in the reservoir tank is at a first elevation; a drain tube fluidly coupled to the upper reservoir drain port; a first valve positioned along the drain tube, the first valve being actuatable between: (i) an open configuration that allows the portion of the water to drain out of the reservoir tank through the first valve and (ii) a closed configuration that blocks the portion of the water from draining out of the reservoir tank through the first valve; a water level sensor arranged to output a high water signal when a level of the water in the reservoir tank is at a second elevation that is above the first elevation; and a control system arranged to receive the high water signal from the water level sensor and configured to output a signal to restrict further addition of water into the reservoir tank in response to receiving the high water signal.
 11. The livewell system of claim 10, wherein the signal to restrict further addition of water causes stoppage of the water supply pump.
 12. The livewell system of claim 10, wherein the signal to restrict further addition of water actuates a valve.
 13. The livewell system of claim 10, wherein the livewell system further comprises: a first selector switch that is actuatable to cause the livewell system to operate in: (i) a first mode and (ii) a second mode, and wherein the first valve is in the open configuration while the livewell system is operating in the first mode, and wherein the first valve is in the closed configuration while the livewell system is operating in the second mode.
 14. The livewell system of claim 13, wherein the livewell system further comprises: a second valve fluidly coupled to: (i) a water access port, (ii) the water supply pump and (iii) a lower reservoir drain port arranged to allow drainage of the water out of the reservoir tank; and a second selector switch that is actuatable to adjust the second valve between each of: a first arrangement in which the water access port, the water supply pump, and the lower reservoir drain port are all in fluid communication with each other; a second arrangement in which the water supply pump and the lower reservoir drain port are in fluid communication with each other while the water access port is not in fluid communication with either of the water supply pump or the lower reservoir drain port; and a third arrangement in which the water access port and the lower reservoir drain port are in fluid communication with each other while the water supply pump is not in fluid communication with either of the water access port or the lower reservoir drain port.
 15. The livewell system of claim 10, wherein the livewell system further comprises a lid that is reconfigurable between: (i) a closed position in which the lid covers a top opening of the reservoir tank and (ii) an open position in which the top opening of the reservoir tank is not covered by the lid.
 16. The livewell system of claim 15, wherein, while the lid is in the closed position and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation an airspace that is less than three inches high exists between the water and the lid.
 17. The livewell system of claim 15, wherein, while the lid is in the closed position and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation an airspace that is less than two inches high exists between the water and the lid.
 18. The livewell system of claim 15, wherein, while the lid is in the closed position and the water in the reservoir tank is at the second elevation an airspace that is less than one inch high exists between the water and the lid.
 19. A livewell system for use on a boat, the livewell system comprising: a reservoir tank; a lid that is positionable over a top of the reservoir tank; and an inflatable bladder positioned in the reservoir tank or attached to a bottom surface of the lid.
 20. The livewell system of claim 19, further comprising an air pump in fluid communication with the inflatable bladder, and wherein the air pump is selectively operable by a user to inflate the inflatable bladder. 